ROCK STEADY BOXING FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S COMES TO SW YMCA

TOPEKA, JANUARY 10TH, 2018 -- Rock Steady Boxing, a unique exercise program, based on training used by boxing pros, and adapted to people with Parkinson’s disease, will now be available in the Topeka area. The program involves regular exercises, such as stretching, bicycling, running, jump-roping, push-ups, balancing and lots of non-contact boxing, led by experienced trainers/coaches. Rock Steady Boxing serves both men and women of all ages and levels of ability.

“We are fortunate to be able to bring this program to the Southwest YMCA,” said Christine Cunningham, who successfully completed the Rock Steady Boxing Training Camp, and is certified to offer Rock Steady Boxing training classes to individuals with Parkinson’s disease who live in the area. Classes start February 5th, 2018, Monday and Wednesday, 1:30 – 2:30 pm at the Southwest YMCA located at 3635 SW Chelsea Drive in Topeka.

The Rock Steady Boxing Method was developed in Indianapolis over the course of seven years. In 2012, the Training Camp was launched to share the Rock Steady Boxing Method with other people who are fighting back against Parkinson’s. Today, there are 470 Rock Steady Boxing around the world, initiated by certified Rock Steady Boxing “Coaches.” All completed the requirements of Rock Steady Boxing and have been officially certified in the Rock Steady Boxing headquarters and training center in Indianapolis.

“We have always believed in the Rock Steady Boxing Method,” said Rock Steady Boxing, Inc. Executive Director Joyce Johnson. “When evidence began to emerge that our program had a very positive impact on the ‘boxers’, our mission became clear -- to share our knowledge and experience with all people with Parkinson’s. That is why we decided to make our training available worldwide -- to train as many as we can so together we can improve the care of people with Parkinson’s everywhere.”

Rock Steady Boxing, Inc., a non-profit organization, was founded in Indianapolis in 2006 with six participants. Participation has steadily increased to more than 155 members today, including men and women ranging in age from 35 to 90. Classes are geared to people at all stages of Parkinson’s disease. Multiple volunteers contribute their time and talents to assist with the classes.

It is estimated that 1-1.5 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease, with as many as 600 diagnosed in Topeka, KS.

For additional information about the YMCA of Topeka, visit www.ymcatopeka.org Additional information about Rock Steady Boxing Inc. and Parkinson’s disease is available at www.rocksteadyboxing.org.

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